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A review by stackedboxes
A Mark on My Soul by Jordon Greene
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
The problem that I have with this book comes partially from the book itself and partially from the author.
This is definitely an emotional read and deals with very real topics, however, I just can’t escape the odd writing style that feels somewhat elementary.
Additionally, there are many times when casually racist moments occur. At times the book even feels homophobic in that it excludes other identities that aren’t skinny gay white men. Examples of this are littered throughout this book and even more so in the author’s other titles. In his other works, the black best friend is almost exclusively referred to as “sassy” EVERY TIME.
The pacing also falls short for me. There are many times when the author focuses on things that feel unnecessary or like they were left in for padding.
I just can’t excuse the harm that this book may do or the weird writing style/tone it uses. The story itself was decent but I can’t help but dislike it overall because of the aforementioned issues.
This is definitely an emotional read and deals with very real topics, however, I just can’t escape the odd writing style that feels somewhat elementary.
Additionally, there are many times when casually racist moments occur. At times the book even feels homophobic in that it excludes other identities that aren’t skinny gay white men. Examples of this are littered throughout this book and even more so in the author’s other titles. In his other works, the black best friend is almost exclusively referred to as “sassy” EVERY TIME.
The pacing also falls short for me. There are many times when the author focuses on things that feel unnecessary or like they were left in for padding.
I just can’t excuse the harm that this book may do or the weird writing style/tone it uses. The story itself was decent but I can’t help but dislike it overall because of the aforementioned issues.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia and Suicide
Moderate: Bullying, Cursing, and Racism